A system boiler is a type of central heating system that heats water for your radiators and stores hot water in a sealed hot water storage cylinder, ready for use when needed. Unlike a combi boiler, which heats water on demand directly from the mains and doesn’t require a storage tank, a system boiler provides a consistent supply of hot water to multiple taps simultaneously. This makes it an ideal choice for larger households or homes with multiple bathrooms, where higher hot water demand is common.

Old system boilers can cause problems in your home. Knowing when to replace them is important to keep your home warm and safe.

Unusual Smells: If you notice strange smells like rotten eggs or sulphur, it could mean there’s a gas leak. Turn off your boiler right away and call a professional. This is a serious problem and could mean you need a new boiler.

Frequent Breakdowns: If your boiler keeps breaking down, it can be both frustrating and costly. Instead of paying for frequent repairs, it may be more affordable in the long run to replace it through a new boiler grant from Heat1 under the ECO4 scheme.

Higher Energy Bills: If your heating bills suddenly go up, your boiler might be wasting energy. Older boilers often use more fuel, which costs more and isn’t good for the environment.

Strange Noises: If your boiler makes loud noises like banging, whistling, or vibrating, there could be something wrong inside. If the sounds keep happening, it might be time for a replacement.

Boiler Age: If your system boiler is 15 to 20 years old, it likely doesn’t work as well as it used to. Newer boilers are much more energy-efficient thanks to better technology.

Uneven Heating: If some rooms in your home feel colder than others, your boiler might not be spreading heat properly. This can be a sign that it’s time for a replacement.

ECO4 scheme eligibility: You may be entitled to a free boiler grants through the government’s ECO4 scheme if you receive certain benefits.

When replacing your old system boiler, you don’t have to choose the same type again. Modern boilers are much more energy-efficient, especially since all new gas boilers in the UK must be condensing models, which recycle heat that older boilers waste. You can consider a combi boiler, which heats water on demand and doesn’t need a storage tank—ideal for smaller homes—or a conventional boiler that uses two water tanks and stores hot water but takes up more space. Whether you stick with a new system boiler or switch to another type, upgrading to a condensing boiler will slash your energy bills and make your home much more eco-friendly.

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a UK government grant that runs from July 2022 to March 2026. Its main aim is to help low-income and vulnerable households make their homes more energy efficient and lower their heating costs. This often includes replacing old boilers for free. To get a free boiler replacement grant through the ECO4 scheme, you need to meet some important rules about your finances and home. Here are the main things you need to qualify:

Here’s why replacing your boiler through the ECO4 scheme is a game-changer for your home and wallet:

Almost No-Cost Installation: Get your new boiler fitted with little to no upfront expense.
Trim Your Energy Expenses: Keep more money in your pocket by boosting heating efficiency.
Live Sustainably: Shrink your environmental impact with cleaner, greener heating.
Elevate Your Home’s Worth: Modern upgrades like a new condensing boiler make your property stand out.
Wrap Yourself in Comfort: Enjoy cozy, even heat that makes every room inviting.
Reliable Performance: Dodge unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs with trusted technology.

Check Your Eligibility: Quickly find out if you qualify by using heat1 free eligibility checker—it only takes about 60 seconds.
Complimentary Survey: Once you pass the eligibility check, Heat1 will organize a free survey at your home. Their skilled engineers will evaluate your existing boiler and property to confirm your eligibility.
Confirmation & Appointment: After the survey and eligibility are confirmed, an installation date will be arranged for you.
Boiler Installation: On the agreed date, professional engineers will remove your old boiler and install your new one.

If your boiler is over 15 to 20 years old, it’s probably not working as efficiently as it used to. This means your heating might be less effective, and your energy bills could be higher. By installing a new, energy-efficient boiler, you could save between £65 and £490 a year. On average, that’s about £270 — which is a significant amount. Generally, switching to a gas boiler can significantly reduce your energy costs because gas is much cheaper than electricity—around 6p per unit compared to 27p per unit. This means upgrading could lead to substantial savings on your heating bills every year. If you want to save this much, you could get a gas boiler free of cost through Heat1 under the ECO4 grant.

Replacing your system boiler is a smart investment that can transform your home’s heating experience. From increased energy efficiency and consistent hot water supply to improved safety and comfort, a new boiler brings numerous benefits. Contact a Heat1-qualified heating professional today to explore your system boiler replacement options and enjoy a warmer, more energy-efficient home. For more information about boiler grants, visit heat1.co.uk.